asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he has seen a newspaper report (details supplied) in regard to the possible sale of the oil terminal at Whiddy Island and if he will furnish such information as is in his possession in this regard.

I have seen the newspaper article referred to and I can inform the Deputy that the report that the oil terminal at Whiddy has been offered for sale to the Government is incorrect.

Has the Minister any idea what will be the future of the terminal at Whiddy?

I think Gulf Oil have expressed the view that they propose in due course to rebuild the jetty which has been destroyed and to maintain the terminal. I believe they have expressed that view publicly. Their present preoccupation is with removing the half of the ship which sank there and nothing very much can be done by anybody until that wreckage is removed.

Is the Minister aware of any concrete plans being made for the rebuilding of Whiddy?

I do not think any concrete plans will be made until the half of the ship is removed.